Mellaril (Oral)
Mellaril is an anti-psychotic medication in a group of drugs called phenothiazines. This medication treats psychotic disorders such as schizophrenia. It is usually given after other medications have been tried without successful treatment of schizophrenia because it has been known to cause dangerous heartbeat irregularities. Hyperactivity, weight gain, and a dry mouth are some of the most common side effects reported with Mellaril. There may be a slightly increased risk of serious, possibly fatal side effects (pneumonia, heart failure) when this medication is used in older adults with dementia.
Questions
| Reviews 
We don't currently have any questions about Mellaril (Oral).
Mellaril (Oral) Drug and Prescription Information
Mellaril (Oral)
Mellaril (Oral) Medication Classification
THIORIDAZINE (By mouth)
Mellaril (Oral) Brandname
Mellaril
Mellaril (Oral) is used for the Treatment
Thioridazine (thye-oh-RiD-a-zeen) Treats the symptoms of schizophrenia.
When To Not Use Mellaril (Oral)
You should not use this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to thioridazine, if you have a history of heart rhythm problems or extreme high or low blood pressure, or if you have a genetic defect involving an enzyme called cytochrome P450. You should not take thioridazine if you are also taking medicines for depression (such as amitriptyline, Paxil®, Prozac®, Zoloft®), blood pressure medicine (such as atenolol, metoprolol, propranolol), medicines for heart rhythm problems, or other antipsychotic medicines (Haldol®, Risperdal®). There are many other medicines, including over-the-counter medicines, that you should not use while you are taking thioridazine. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medicines you are using.
How Should You Use Mellaril (Oral)
Tablet, Liquid
- Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Your dose may need to be changed several times in order to find out the what works best for you. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
- Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon or medicine cup, or use the dropper that came with the medicine.
- You may mix the oral liquid concentrate with a half glass of distilled water or orange juice. Mix only enough medicine for one dose and drink all the liquid right away. If a dose is missed:
- If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
- Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
Proper Mellaril (Oral) Storage
Store Mellaril (Oral) at room temperature away from sunlight and moisture unless otherwise stated by manufacturer's instructions or labelling. Keep Mellaril (Oral) and all medications out of the reach of children.
What To Avoid While Using Mellaril (Oral)
Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.
- Certain drugs should not be used while using thioridazine. Using these drugs can cause very serious medical problems, heart problems, or even death.
- Avoid drinking alcohol.
- Make sure your doctor knows if you are using any medicines that make you sleepy (such as sleeping pills, cold and allergy medicine, narcotic pain killers, or sedatives).
Mellaril (Oral) Warnings
- If you are pregnant or breast feeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. False positive (incorrect) pregnancy tests have been reported in patients taking this medicine.
- Check with your doctor before taking thioridazine if you have an unusually slow heartbeat, low levels of potassium in your blood, seizures, or heart disease, or if you have ever had breast cancer. Also, tell your doctor if you have ever had a reaction to similar medicines, such as Thorazine® or Trilafon®.
- Thioridazine can make some people feel dizzy or drowsy. Be careful if driving a car or operating machinery.
Mellaril (Oral) Side Effects
Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:
- Dizziness, fainting
- Fever, severe muscle stiffness, excessive sweating
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- Muscle spasms of the neck, face, or tongue, or other body movements you cannot control
- Severe chest pain
- Trouble breathing
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, seizures (convulsions) If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:
- Changes in menstrual cycle
- Changes in vision, such as trouble focusing, changes in how you see colors, or trouble seeing at night
- Dry mouth
- Lightheadedness, especially when standing up
- Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
- Sleepiness
- Tremors or shaking
